Emeralds are one of the most beautiful of all gemstones. Flawless specimens of good color, clarity and size are exceedingly rare and sell for higher prices than diamonds (which, by the way, are really not rare) of equal size and weight. In ancient times, it was known not only for its beauty, but also for its purported power to heal diseases of the eye. People who were born in the month of May have the emerald as their birthstone

Way back when, most emeralds were mined in Egypt. Today, most specimens come from Colombia. Emeralds have also been found in other South American countries, Siberia, and in the United States in several counties in the state of North Carolina. They are actually a green variety of the mineral beryl, the same mineral that produces aquamarines. The bright green color comes from the the presence of chromium in the beryl.

Emeralds are so rare that even the artificially synthesized ones of good quality command high prices. The process of how they are created is still a well-kept secret. They have a certain mystique – the signature rectangular shaped cut is called the “”emerald cut”” no matter what type of gemstone it is used on. The most popular usage of emeralds in jewelry making is in rings, followed by pendants and earrings.

According to the National Geographic Channel, the world’s largest emerald ever found is worth $400 million and contains over 1,900,000 carats. It was found in Brazil and is known as the Bahia Emerald. This mega gem weighs in at 840 pounds, and actually contains the largest shard ever found along with many smaller stones. Rumor has it that at one point, it was on sale on eBay for only $75 million. Guess what? The ownership of the Bahia Emerald has been in dispute for over five years; a 2013 court date has been set.

About the Author:Julia Lawrence thoroughly enjoys spending time researching and writing about diamonds, jewelry and pop culture! When she isn't hard at work writing blog posts for The Diamond Lining, she spends her time wither with an absolutely adorable Mini Golder Retriever: Jake, and her husband: Mr. Julia Lawrence.
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